SPOTLIGHT
A conversation with Thavisouk Phrasavath
Co-Producer, Editor and Write for Nerakhoon / The Betrayal
Nominated for 2009 Academy Award Best Documentary Category
Nominated in the Best Documentary category in 2009 Academy Awards, the film “Nerakhoon/The Betrayal” is a story of a family’s epic journey from war-torn Laos to the mean streets of New York.
Thavisouk Phrasavath tells his own story of struggling as a young man to survive both the war and the hardships of immigrant life, as well as his mother’s astonishing tale of perseverance.
In an exclusive interview with Georgia Asian Times, Thavi shares his personal insight and views on his film and community.
“Thavi” as he likes to be called came to America when he was thirteen years old. He landed in Brooklyn like many Laotian refugees and learns to survive in the adopted country.
“I grew up in a tough neighborhood in Brooklyn and faces ‘racism’ on the daily basis. With my buck teeth and slanty eyes, I fit into a typical profile for name calling,” recalled Thavi with a vivid smile.
Thavi arrives in town to participate in the 5th Atlanta Asian Film Festival’s Premiere Night Gala on October 9th.
“This film is dedicated to every Laotian individual in the world. My personal story is also their life-story. It is about survival and documenting the truths that has happened in Laos. History is often rewritten in Laos to hide the truths,” explains Thavi on his Oscar-nominated film, Nerakhoon.
Thavi hopes his film inspires younger Laotian to come together and be united. He also hopes young Laotian to be involved with community work and local politics. “This is a great way to make a difference in the community and to give back to this great nation,” said Thavi.
He is also quick to add “America is not a melting pot, but like a giant mosaic where many unique identity of diverse cultures comes together.”
Through his films, he also hopes to inspire more Asians to be involved with filmmaking. “To see one of your own in films will have a larger impact on personal self-esteem and pride. Hopefully, it will also change the perspective of Asian parents on their kid’s ambition to be an artist or film maker,” said Thavi.
It took 23 years to complete Nerakhoon as it documents every phase of Thavi’s life.
“I am most proud of this film as it really captures the true spirit of Laotian and Asian people. Nerakhoon will not be the same if it is produced from a Western viewpoint,” said Thavi who ironically co-produce Nerakhoon with renowned cinematographer Ellen Kuras.
“Specifically, this film reminds us of the strength necessary to survive unthinkable conditions, and of the human spirit’s inspiring capacity to adapt, rebuild and forgive.”
His schedule is packed, as he is currently busy with another film project on Laos and an autobiographical book containing poetry.
“I would love to come back to meet with the Laotian community in Georgia when both projects are completed,” said Thavi with his signature smile.